Diana and Joe Arlt wanted to do something to raise money for the arts in The Villages and give local performers a chance to get on stage.
As a result the local couple created “Showcase of Talent,” a monthly review of music and dance. The next one takes place Thursday Jan 29, at 7 p.m. in the La Hacienda Regional Recreation Center. Tickets are $5.
Thus far, the talent showcases have raised over $5,000 in scholarships, including the Bob Washington Jazz Society.
But these showcases are about more than money.
“We want to give new and experienced performers the chance to perform in a professional setting,” Diana Arlt stated in an email. “We want to give our residents an inexpensive evening of entertainment.” She added, the other goal is to donate “all of the proceeds to organizations fostering performing arts in and around The Villages.”
Among the acts scheduled for Thursday’s show include, the VAMPS dance troop and the Shaka Crew Dance Company. Other performers include singers John Manion and Diana Arlt; Shirley Knight as Phyllis Diller and singer Bob Russell.
Also, the dance team of Armando Ocampo and Sandy Dunlap will perform, along with singers: Vanessa Russell, Tony Battaglia, Joe Baltzell and Andy Malinosky.
The gospel/country trio Country Cruisers will also perform.